Iran Targets Kuwaiti and Bahraini Oil Tankers Amid US Tensions
Iran's naval authorities have issued a warning to oil tankers in Kuwaiti and Bahraini ports, stating that they will be targeted in retaliatory strikes if US attacks on Iranian vessels continue. The warning follows reports of US military strikes targeting several Iranian commercial oil tankers, with one vessel reportedly struck by a US missile near Kharg Island in the Gulf.
The naval command called upon all crew members aboard tankers anchored in ports across Kuwait and Bahrain to evacuate immediately, citing direct responses to US actions. The statement also accused the two Gulf nations of hosting US forces and cooperating with Washington in facilitating strikes against Iranian commercial shipping.
The maritime escalation comes amid severe tensions between Iran and the United States surrounding the strategic Strait of Hormuz, despite a June agreement outlining a roadmap to reopen the vital shipping corridor as a precursor to diplomatic talks.